"We've organised games like this in every tournament we have competed in as preparation for our UEFA Qualifiers. Against Gerry Smith’s sides in the past we have found them to be very beneficial. We have seen players become first team regulars at their Irish clubs, many have also become regulars in the U21 team while some have also moved to the UK and become full-time professionals," said King.
Players who have played in similar games in recent years include: Aaron Greene, Paddy Madden, Enda Stevens and Andy Boyle (2010), Daryl Horgan, Gearoid Morrissey and Kevin Dawson (2011), Robbie Benson, Chris Forrester and Barry McNamee (2013), John Kavanagh, Sean Hoare, Lee Desmond and Brandon Miele (2015).
"A lot of good players are playing at home and it's an opportunity to see them up close and identify players who can offer something to the wider group for the campaign ahead," said King.
"We've a tough qualifying campaign to come but there are opportunities there for players who are willing to step up to the challenge to go out and make an impression.
"Gerry Davis’ new look Amateurs will as always prove tough opponents as no doubt he will be anxious to progress his own squad for their upcoming International challenges."
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U21 HOME-BASED SQUAD:
Kevin Horgan (Shamrock Rovers)
Matthew Connor (Waterford FC)
Colm Deasy (Drogheda United)
Richie Purdy (Drogheda United)
Gary Boylan (Sligo Rovers)
Regan Donelan (Sligo Rovers)
Ryan Robinson (St Mochta's)
Rory Feely (St Patrick's Athletic)
Paudie O'Connor (Limerick FC)
Ethan Boyle (Finn Harps)
Georgie Poynton (Bohemians)
Jamie McGrath (Dundalk)
Darragh Noone (Bray Wanderers)
Josh Daniels (Derry City)
Ronan Curtis (Derry City)
Ben Doherty (Derry City)
Conor Melody (Galway United)
FIXTURE
Saturday, February 11
Training Match
Republic of Ireland U21 Home-Based squad v Republic of Ireland Amateur International squad, AUL Complex (2.00pm)